News Summary
The University of Central Florida has achieved the significant milestone of being designated a preeminent state research university, a status that is expected to enhance its funding and recognition. With a four-year graduation rate surpassing the state minimum, UCF demonstrates a strong commitment to student success and aims to exceed future graduation goals. The designation, part of the Florida Preeminence Program, promises increased funding for faculty salaries, scholarships, and improved educational quality, all while addressing ongoing challenges such as a high student-to-faculty ratio.
Orlando—The University of Central Florida (UCF) has announced that it has met the standards required to earn the designation of a “preeminent state research university”, a significant milestone that could enhance its funding and recognition. This announcement was made on September 23, 2025, by UCF President Alexander Cartwright, who termed the achievement “remarkable and unprecedented” given the university’s large population of nearly 70,000 students.
UCF’s recent accomplishments include a four-year graduation rate that reached 63.8% this summer, surpassing the state required minimum of 60%. This increase in graduation rates highlights the university’s commitment to student success, showing a nearly 14% increase over the past four years. To officially receive the preeminence designation, UCF is required to obtain verification from the Board of Governors of the state university system, confirming that its performance meets 12 specific criteria.
UCF anticipates receiving official confirmation of its preeminence status in June 2026. Other Florida institutions, such as the University of Florida, Florida State University, University of South Florida, and Florida International University, have previously achieved this designation, showcasing a competitive landscape among state universities.
The designation comes under the Florida Preeminence Program, which was established in 2013 and incentivizes institutions with additional funding based on various metrics, including graduation rates, national rankings, and research funding acquired. Increased funding resulting from this program is expected to improve faculty and staff salaries, provide expanded scholarships, and create more purpose-driven spaces and experiential learning opportunities for students.
Despite facing challenges related to a high student-to-faculty ratio of 28.3 to 1, UCF has successfully improved its graduation rates through “innovative” and “efficient” practices, according to university officials. The university’s substantial student body posed challenges in terms of large class sizes and waiting lists, yet it has managed to elevate its graduation rates effectively.
Ryan Goodwin, UCF’s senior assistant vice president for strategic initiatives, indicated that achieving the preeminence distinction will significantly enhance UCF’s reputation and strengthen its recruitment capabilities. UCF aims not only to maintain progress but also to exceed the state’s newly set goal of a 70% four-year graduation rate. The university strives to become recognized as one of the most student-success-driven institutions within the country.
The verification process for UCF’s preeminent status will commence with a presentation of results to the UCF Board of Trustees in April 2026. This approach signifies the university’s structured endeavor towards achieving and maintaining high educational standards and outcomes for its students.
In conclusion, UCF’s attainment of the preeminent state research university designation marks a pivotal moment in its trajectory, promising enhancements in funding and opportunities aimed at improving educational quality and student success.
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Additional Resources
- Orlando Sentinel
- Click Orlando
- Nicholson Student Media
- WDBO
- Wikipedia: University of Central Florida
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
